Saving the Butterfly: A story about refugees

Two children, a brother and a sister, are rescued at sea, the only survivors. They’re welcomed as refugees and given a place to stay, a dilapidated building among a village of them. The little boy adapts easily, blending in with the others, playing and laughing, carrying on with his life. His older sister, though, is tortured by memories of the dark sea and the tumultuous tides that changed everything. She hides away inside, not able to find the courage to venture out into the world again. One day, the younger child brings her a butterfly. Despite her trepidation, she knows what she must do to set the creature free and begin to heal.

This is a beautiful story of loss, hope, and restoration. The author portrays the lives of child refugees with heartfelt sensitivity. The brother’s love is palpable, and readers will cheer when his sibling takes her first steps into the light. Details like the quilted blanket that’s always by the sister’s side and the stuffed rabbit that remains with the siblings throughout add depth and sweetness to the narrative. Those ages six to ten will walk away from this book with a new-found sense of gratitude and compassion.